Breathe Easy: How To Banish Odor From Your Workout Clothes

AvatarByGenny Wilkinson Priest

Working out can leave you feeling refreshed and energized, but unfortunately, it can also leave you with a not-so-refreshing problem – lingering odor in your workout clothes. Sweat and bacteria build-up can make your favorite gym attire anything but pleasant to be around. But fear not, there are simple and effective solutions to get rid of that pesky smell and leave your workout clothes smelling as good as new. In this article, we will explore the best methods for getting odor out of workout clothes so you can feel confident and fresh during your workouts. Say goodbye to stinky gym gear and hello to a more enjoyable and hygienic workout experience!

Every fitness enthusiast knows the struggle of keeping their workout clothes smelling fresh and clean. No matter how often you wash them, some odors seem to linger. This can be frustrating and embarrassing, especially if you’re working out in a public setting. But fear not, as there are ways to get rid of those pesky odors and keep your workout clothes smelling like new!

Understanding Workout Clothes Odor

Before we dive into the solutions for removing odors from workout clothes, it’s important to understand what causes these odors in the first place. Sweat is a major culprit as it contains bacteria that thrive in warm and moist environments – like your sweat-soaked workout clothes. These bacteria break down sweat, producing compounds that give off that unpleasant odor. But even if you don’t sweat excessively during your workouts, your clothes can still develop a musty odor from being damp for an extended period of time.

Prevention Techniques

The best way to tackle odor in workout clothes is by preventing it from occurring in the first place. Here are some tips on how to keep your workout gear smelling fresh:

1. Wash immediately after use: The longer you leave your sweaty clothes in a pile, the more time bacteria has to break down sweat and produce odor. Try to throw them in the wash as soon as possible after working out.

2. Use less detergent: Although it may seem counterintuitive, using too much detergent can actually trap bacteria into your clothes instead of removing them completely. Stick to the recommended amount or use a sports-specific detergent designed for removing odors.

3. Avoid fabric softener: Fabric softeners tend to coat fabrics with chemicals that can trap odor-causing bacteria.

4. Hang dry: Instead of throwing your sweaty clothes into a hamper, hang them up until they’re ready to be washed. This will allow them to dry out, making it harder for bacteria to grow.

5. Turn clothes inside out: When washing your workout clothes, turn them inside out so that sweat and bacteria are exposed to the detergent and hot water, effectively removing them from the fabric.

Cleaning Guidelines

When it comes to actually washing your workout clothes, there are a few guidelines you should follow to ensure they come out clean and odor-free:

1. Use hot water: Hot water is more effective at killing bacteria compared to cold water. Make sure that the fabric can withstand high temperatures before using hot water.

2. Add vinegar or baking soda: Both vinegar and baking soda can help neutralize odors in your clothes. Add half a cup of white vinegar or baking soda to your wash cycle along with detergent.

3. Soak in saltwater solution: For particularly stubborn odors, create a saltwater solution by mixing half a cup of salt with 4 cups of warm water. Soak your clothes for an hour before washing as usual.

4. Don’t overload the washer: Overcrowding the washer can prevent proper cleaning and may trap odors in your clothes even after washing.

5. Skip the dryer: High heat from the dryer can set in any remaining odors in your clothes, making them harder to remove next time you wash them. Instead, hang dry your workout gear.

Spot Treatment

If you’ve followed all the prevention techniques and proper cleaning guidelines but still can’t seem to get rid of odor from certain areas on your workout clothes, spot treatment may be the solution:

1. Pre-treat with enzyme-based stain remover: Stains are often accompanied by odor-causing bacteria. To tackle both issues, use an enzyme-based stain remover on any visible stains before washing as usual.

2. Try natural remedies: Lemon juice, hydrogen peroxide or baking soda can be used as a spot treatment on stubborn odors. Mix any of these ingredients with water and gently scrub the affected area before washing.

3. Use an odor-eliminating spray: There are many sports-specific sprays on the market that claim to remove odors from workout clothes. Look for ones that contain bacteria-fighting agents like tea tree oil or enzymes.

Proper Storage

After your workout clothes are clean and fresh-smelling, it’s important to store them properly to prevent the buildup of bacteria and odors:

1. Allow clothes to dry completely: Make sure your workout gear is completely dry before storing them away. Damp or wet clothes can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria.

2. Store in a well-ventilated area: Avoid leaving your clothes in an enclosed space like a gym bag or drawer. Instead, hang them up in an open area with good air circulation.

3. Consider using storage bags with activated charcoal: Activated charcoal is known for absorbing odors and may help keep your workout clothes smelling cleaner for longer.

By understanding what causes odor in workout clothes, following proper cleaning guidelines, and implementing preventive measures, you can successfully get rid of those unpleasant smells

What Causes Odor in Workout Clothes?

Workout clothes are notorious for retaining unpleasant odors due to the combination of sweat, bacteria, and moisture. This enables the proliferation of odor-causing bacteria on the fabric, leading to a strong and persistent stench. As you work out, you produce sweat which contains salt and proteins that bacteria feed on. The bacteria break down these components, producing a characteristic sulfur-like smell commonly associated with sweat.

Furthermore, moisture from sweat becomes trapped in the fabric fibers when your workout clothes do not have adequate ventilation. This creates an ideal environment for bacteria to grow and causes the odor to linger even after washing. Another factor that can contribute to odor in workout clothes is using too much laundry detergent or fabric softener. These products can build up on your clothes, trapping bacteria and causing odors.

Why You Should Get Rid of Odor in Workout Clothes

Apart from being unpleasant and embarrassing, leaving odor in your workout clothes can have some serious consequences. Bacteria grow exponentially on damp fabrics making them susceptible to various skin infections such as acne, athlete’s foot, jock itch, and folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles).

Moreover, if you don’t take care of your workout clothes properly, they will continue to retain odors even after repeated washing which can be quite frustrating and annoying. In addition to this, foul-smelling workout clothes will make you feel self-conscious during workouts or while interacting with others.

How To Get Odor Out Of Workout Clothes

1) Pre-treat Stained Areas

Before washing your workout clothes, give specific areas that tend to get stained (such as armpits) special attention by pre-treating them. You can use a pre-treatment stain remover or create a DIY solution using baking soda and water. Apply the solution on the stained areas and let it sit for at least 30 minutes before tossing it in the wash.

2) Use Vinegar

White vinegar has been proven to be a powerful odor eliminator due to its high acidity. Adding half a cup of vinegar to your laundry load can help get rid of any lingering odor in your workout clothes. You can also soak your workout clothes in a mixture of water and vinegar for about an hour before washing them.

3) Try Baking Soda

Baking soda is another effective natural ingredient that helps neutralize odors. Add half a cup of baking soda to your laundry load or soak your workout clothes in a mixture of baking soda and water before washing.

4) Use Sports Detergent

Regular laundry detergent may not be strong enough to get rid of sweat and bacteria trapped in workout clothes. Invest in a sports detergent specifically designed to tackle odor-causing bacteria and sweat residue on workout clothes.

5) Avoid Using Too Much Detergent or Fabric Softener

Using too much detergent or fabric softener can leave residue on your workout clothes, trapping bacteria which will cause odors to persist even after washing. Follow the recommended amount for each load and rinse your clothes thoroughly to avoid any buildup.

6) Wash in Hot Water

Washing your workout clothes in hot water is more effective at killing bacteria than using cold water. However, ensure that the fabric can withstand hot water washes without shrinking or losing its shape.

7) Dry Your Clothes Properly

After washing, make sure you hang your workout clothes outside to dry if possible. Sunshine contains ultraviolet rays that are great at killing bacteria, leaving your clothes smelling fresh and clean. If you must use a dryer, set it on the highest setting allowed for the fabric.

Preventing Odor In Workout Clothes

1) Wash Your Clothes Immediately After Working Out

The longer you wait to wash your workout clothes, the more time bacteria have to multiply. Try to wash your clothes immediately after a sweat session to prevent bacteria from spreading.

2) Don’t Use the Same Workout Clothes for Multiple Workouts

Re-wearing workout clothes without washing them is a recipe for odor. Aim to have a fresh set of workout clothes for every session.

3) Invest in Breathable Fabrics

Some fabrics are better at wicking away moisture and allowing ventilation than others. Opt for workout clothes made of moisture-wicking fabrics like nylon or polyester which help keep you cool and dry during workouts.

4) Wash Your Workout Gear Separately

Avoid washing your regular laundry with your workout clothes. This will prevent any transfer of bacteria or sweat residue onto your regular clothing.

Getting rid of odor in workout clothes can be challenging but not impossible. By following the tips mentioned above, you can effectively eliminate any unpleasant smells from your workout gear and prevent them from coming back. Remember, proper hygiene practices and taking care of your workout clothes will not only keep them smelling fresh but also prevent any potential skin infections. So follow these tips and enjoy fresh-smelling workout gear on all your future sweat sessions!

Q: What causes odor in workout clothes?
A: The main cause of odor in workout clothes is the buildup of bacteria on the fabric. Sweat, oils, and dead skin cells provide a breeding ground for these bacteria to thrive.

Q: How can I prevent odor in my workout clothes?
A: To prevent odor, make sure to wash your workout clothes after each use. It’s also important to let them air dry completely before storing them. Avoid wearing the same outfit for multiple workouts without washing it.

Q: Is there a specific way to wash workout clothes to get rid of odors?
A: Yes, it is important to follow specific care instructions for workout clothes. Use a detergent specifically designed for performance fabrics and avoid using fabric softeners as they can trap odor-causing bacteria.

Q: Can vinegar or baking soda help get rid of odors in workout clothes?
A: Yes, both vinegar and baking soda can be effective options for removing odors from workout clothes. You can add half a cup of either one during the wash cycle or create a pre-soak solution before washing.

Q: Are there any natural remedies for getting rid of odors in workout clothes?
A: Yes, there are natural options such as using lemon juice or essential oils like tea tree oil, which have antibacterial properties. You can add a few drops to the wash cycle to eliminate odors.

Q: How often should I replace my workout clothes if they continue to hold onto odors?
A: If your workout clothes still have lingering odors despite proper washing, it may be time to replace them. Check the care instructions first as some fabrics may need to be replaced more frequently than others.

In conclusion, removing odor from workout clothes can be a challenging task. However, with the right techniques and products, it is possible to effectively eliminate stubborn odors. Firstly, it is important to properly clean and care for workout clothes by following the label instructions and avoiding harsh detergents. Additionally, incorporating natural deodorizing agents such as vinegar or baking soda can help neutralize odors. Regularly airing out and thoroughly drying workout clothes can also prevent the buildup of bacteria and odor-causing microbes. For persistent odors, pre-treating with enzyme-based laundry detergents or using specialized sportswear detergents can be effective solutions. It is also crucial to regularly wash accessories like gym bags and washing machine drums that come in contact with workout clothes. Lastly, maintaining good personal hygiene habits such as showering after exercise and avoiding wearing sweaty clothes for extended periods can go a long way in preventing odors from setting into garments. By implementing these tips, one can successfully get rid of odor from their workout clothes and enjoy fresh-smelling activewear every time they hit the gym. Remember, taking care of your workout attire not only ensures freshness but also prolongs their lifespan, making it a win-win situation for both you and your wallet. So next time you’re

Author Profile

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Genny Wilkinson Priest
Genny Wilkinson Priest began her journey into Ashtanga yoga in 2000 while working as a journalist in her native New York City. Initially drawn to the practice for its physical benefits, Genny soon discovered the profound mental advantages, especially during the challenging period following the 9/11 terror attacks.

Which she covered as a journalist for Reuters. Her professional career took her to Singapore, where she wrote for Time Magazine, and then to Paris, before she finally settled in London.

As her family expanded to include four boys, Genny decided to leave full-time journalism to immerse herself in yoga studies. She achieved certification as a Shri K Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute Authorised Level 1 teacher, a British Wheel of Yoga teacher, and a Yoga Alliance-certified teacher.Genny’s passion for yoga philosophy led her to pursue a Master’s Degree in the Traditions of Yoga and Meditation at SOAS in London.

From 2024, Genny Wilkinson Priest has started writing an informative blog on the “Niche Name” niche. She writes informative posts and answers queries on topics that people seek in the niche. This transition marks a significant shift from her previous focus on journalism and traditional media to a more interactive and digital form of communication.

Genny’s blog aims to provide valuable information and foster a community of yoga enthusiasts who can learn and grow together. Her extensive background in both journalism and yoga practice ensures that her content is both authoritative and engaging.